Google Calendar is a popular tool for managing events and schedules. Sometimes, users face issues when trying to delete recurring events, especially on Windows 11. This problem can be frustrating if you need to clear your calendar quickly.
Luckily, there are simple methods to fix this issue without losing other important data. This guide will walk you through easy and detailed steps to resolve the problem of Google Calendar not deleting recurring events.
Each step is explained clearly so even beginners can follow along without confusion. By the end, you’ll know how to handle recurring events properly and keep your calendar organized.
Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into the solutions.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks
- Check your internet connection: Google Calendar needs a stable internet connection to sync changes.
- Sign in with the correct Google account: Make sure you are logged into the account that owns the calendar you want to edit.
- Try a different browser: Sometimes browser issues cause problems. Use Chrome, Edge, or Firefox to see if the problem persists.
- Clear browser cache: Old cached data can interfere with calendar functions.
Step 1: Delete the Recurring Event Correctly
Deleting recurring events requires choosing the right option in Google Calendar. Here is how to do it step-by-step:
- Open Google Calendar on your preferred browser.
- Find the recurring event you want to delete by navigating to the date it appears on.
- Click on the event to open the details popup.
- Click the Delete or Remove button (trash bin icon).
- You will see a prompt asking if you want to delete only this event, all events in the series, or this and following events.
- Choose All events in the series to remove every occurrence of the recurring event.
- Confirm the deletion.
Why is this important? If you select only one event by mistake, the rest of the recurring series will remain. Always choose to delete the entire series to remove the recurring event fully.
Step 2: Refresh and Sync Your Calendar
After deletion, it may take some time for changes to reflect on all your devices. To speed this up, force a refresh and sync:
- Click the Refresh button in your browser or press
F5. - If you use the Google Calendar app on Windows 11, close it completely and reopen.
- In Google Calendar settings, go to Sync and manually trigger a sync if the option is available.
This step ensures your calendar updates properly and the deleted events disappear from all views.
Step 3: Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
Sometimes browser cache or cookies cause outdated information to appear, making deleted events still show up. Clearing cache helps:
- Open your browser settings (e.g., Chrome: click the three dots → More Tools → Clear browsing data).
- Select Cached images and files and Cookies and other site data.
- Set the time range to All time for a thorough clean.
- Click Clear data.
- Restart your browser and check Google Calendar again.
This process removes old files that might cause display problems.
Step 4: Remove the Event Using Google Calendar App on Windows 11
If you have the Google Calendar app installed on Windows 11, try deleting the event there:
- Open the Google Calendar app.
- Locate the recurring event.
- Right-click or tap the event and select Delete.
- Choose to delete the entire series when prompted.
- Check if the event is removed successfully.
Using the app sometimes bypasses browser-specific issues.
Step 5: Use Google Calendar’s Web Version in Incognito Mode
Browser extensions or settings sometimes interfere with calendar functions. To test this, open Google Calendar in an incognito/private window:
- Open a new incognito window (Ctrl + Shift + N in Chrome).
- Sign in to your Google account.
- Navigate to the recurring event and try to delete it as described in Step 1.
- If it works here, disable browser extensions one by one in normal mode to find the culprit.
Alternative Method: Cancel the Recurring Event Instead of Deleting
If deletion does not work, you can try cancelling the recurring event by editing it:
- Open the event details.
- Click Edit (pencil icon).
- Change the event title to include “Cancelled” or similar.
- Set the event time to a past date or remove guests.
- Save changes for the entire series.
This method keeps the calendar clean without full deletion, useful if the event refuses to delete due to syncing issues.
FAQs
Why can’t I delete recurring events in Google Calendar?
This usually happens due to sync issues, browser cache problems, or not selecting the option to delete all events in the series.
Will deleting recurring events remove them from other people’s calendars?
Yes, if you are the event organizer, deleting the series removes it from all invitees’ calendars.
Can I recover a deleted recurring event?
Google Calendar does not have an undo button, but you can check the Trash folder (on the web version) to restore deleted events within 30 days.
Does this problem happen only on Windows 11?
No, it can happen on any operating system but may be more noticeable due to app or browser compatibility issues.
What if the event is from a subscribed calendar?
You cannot delete events from subscribed calendars; you need to unsubscribe or contact the calendar owner.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all steps and still cannot delete recurring events, consider these final options:
- Contact Google Support through Google Calendar Help Center.
- Remove and re-add your Google account from your Windows 11 device to refresh all data.
- Use a different device or browser to manage your calendar.
- Check for Windows 11 updates and install any pending system updates.
These steps help address deeper technical or account-related issues.
Conclusion
Deleting recurring events in Google Calendar on Windows 11 can sometimes be tricky due to syncing and browser issues. By following simple steps such as correctly deleting the entire series, refreshing your calendar, clearing cache, and using alternative methods, you can resolve most problems.
Always ensure you are signed into the correct account and have a stable internet connection. If issues persist, advanced options like using incognito mode or contacting Google support may be necessary.
With these solutions, you can keep your calendar clean and organized without unwanted recurring events causing confusion.